Mansion Sports – Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has developed into one of the most sought-after central defenders in Europe thanks to his performances and his contract situation. Nevertheless, he is certainly not a “cheap” option as some might have expected.

In recent months, Schlotterbeck has been linked with Real Madrid and Barcelona, while Bayern Munich have also shown interest by considering him as an alternative to Dayot Upamecano should the French defender depart next summer.

Schlotterbeck is reported to have decided not to extend his contract with Dortmund, which is set to expire in 2027. In theory, this situation should force Borussia Dortmund to consider a sale at a lower price.

However, according to a BILD report cited by Sport, the German giants will not allow Schlotterbeck to leave for a fee below 50 million euros.

Transfer Fee and High Salary Demands

In addition to the high transfer fee, Schlotterbeck’s personal demands are also considered expensive. 

His current salary stands at approximately 14 million euros gross per year, and Bayern Munich are reportedly prepared to offer an increase to 15 million euros per season.

However, Schlotterbeck’s camp have set a demand of 20 million euros per year, along with a signing bonus of 20 million euros. 

As noted by Sport, the total package for a five-year contract would reach around 120 million euros, excluding the transfer fee. If an interested club also meets Dortmund’s demands next summer, the total expenditure could rise to 170 million euros.

Impact on Barcelona and the Player’s Preference

Naturally, interested clubs are expected to attempt to reduce these demands, and the figures could simply represent an initial asking price set by the player’s agent. Even so, these numbers are already significant enough to pose serious problems for Barcelona’s wage limit.

An additional issue for the Catalan club is reports suggesting that Schlotterbeck prefers a move to Real Madrid.

On the other hand, Real Madrid are also involved in the pursuit of Dayot Upamecano, which could allow them to avoid direct competition with Barcelona.

Los Blancos are said to be in a strong position following reports that they have reached a personal agreement with Upamecano.